| Original Message |
Paul (no login)
Posted Oct 28, 2005 9:41 AM
I'm building a file in the "MASTER INDEX" to document the various models of Commander with photos. Since the photos of the 38 are dispersed all over the place, I thought I'd consolidate some here just to show off the two basic models.
38-foot Commanders came in two basic configurations, “Express” and “Sedan”.
Both were offered with or without the flybridge. Therefore there are “Express Flybridge” and “Sedan Flybridge” models. The basic difference between the Express and Sedan is the configuration of the helm station and interior cabin, as the exterior of these two boats will look “almost” the same, and the basic hull is the same.
One of the easiest ways to tell an Express from a Sedan is the front windshield or the enclosed sliding glass enclosure around the helm from viewing the boat from the rear.. The Express has the traditional two piece operable windshield, and the Sedan has a single center section of operable glass.
Here are some examples of frontal views of each boat: This is the Express
Here’s the Sedan windshield detail
The following photos show the similar side profile of the Express and Sedan. Visually, the external hull is “almost identical” between the two boats.
Commander Express side profile
Commander Sedan side profiles
Now the big part of the difference between the Express and Sedan becomes readily apparent when you take a look at the helm station. The Express is an open boat, and the Sedan is an enclosed cabin, which opens up into the living quarters below. Both are great boats, but the Express is a little more Spartan while the Sedan is a little more luxurious. Which one is the fastest? Well with the same power the lighter boat will always win, so the fastest of the 38 Commander series would be the Express. Here are some photos that document the difference in cabin and helm construction between the Express and the Sedan.
Here’s the aft deck of a Sedan
Here’s the aft deck of an Express, note the helm station over on the Port Side, as the Sedan has the Helm at the just-Starboard-of-center section of the cabin.
Here are two photos of the helm station on a Sedan, note the configuration of the window, where the helm is located, and take a peek down that hatchway to see a glimpse of the galley along the Port side of the boat.
Here is a photo of the helm station of the Express, note the fact that the hatch is on the center-Starboard side of the boat.
Here is a loaded Express
Here is a loaded Sedan Flybridge
Hope this helps you guys and gals out there who may be shopping around for a 38, or just trying to understand the differences between the two models.
Regards, Paul
1966 38 Commander Express (aftermarket flybridge added)
Original 427 power
|
|
|